Attempts to increase the appeal of spirits among younger consumer age groups through dessert and candy flavor blends feature in this month's summary of novel drinks launches. Meanwhile, an innovative whisky introduction shows that coconut remains a flavor to watch in the spirits market, while cola is uncovering its functional side with an unusual fat-burning launch.

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Unusual vegetable-based drinks are the highlight of this month's roundup of innovative product launches from the drinks industry, as canned tomato and zucchini drinks hit the shelves. In other news, drinking chocolate is a focus of innovation, with two novel formulations, while concerns about pack security and hygiene have extended to energy drinks with the launch of a new lidded can design.

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The emergence of QR codes in line with growing consumer take-up of smartphone technology is offering diverse marketing and branding opportunities to consumer goods companies, as evidenced by the sparkling wine launch that headlines this month's rundown of drinks innovations. Meanwhile, new flavors are emerging in the gin segment and novel formats are being explored for liqueurs and bottled water.

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In this month's review of beverage launches, the innovation potential of bottled water is being explored by drinks manufacturers. A striking "divided" bottle with separate compartments for water and flavoring has been launched in Russia, while concentrate powders have been reimagined as an on-the-go item, and spring water designed specifically for making baby food has hit shelves in Europe.

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The decline in on-trade alcohol consumption and the growing influence of the off-trade market are leading manufacturers to cater for an ever more diverse range of drinking occasions, as illustrated by two new convenience formats in the spirits market. A hot chocolate drink with enhanced relaxation attributes is another launch to feature in this month's roundup of drinks industry innovations.

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In this month's roundup of novel drinks industry launches, the personalization trend once again takes center stage with the introduction of a new powdered drink that allows consumers to blend individual flavors according to their own taste. In packaging news, novelty musical Christmas tins have arrived for the tea category, while butterscotch flavor "beer" for children is also hitting the shelves.

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With growing health concerns over the high levels of salt in processed foods, manufacturers in many parts of the world are having to take action to reduce the salt content of their products. However, as this month's rundown of the latest innovations from the drinks industry shows, the Japanese soft drinks market could be set to buck this trend, with two new salt-inspired variants hitting shelves.

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The brewer has released a new - and seemingly more modern - Budweiser can design in an attempt to attract younger consumers and in doing so counter declining brand sales. However, against a backdrop of acute consumer price consciousness and shifting category taste preferences, it is doubtful that the redesign will have any significant, long-term impact on overall brand sales.

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Costco has opened another two outlets in the country, which should be to the benefit of consumers seeking alternatives to Coles and Woolworths. With competition leading to lower prices, Costco should be able to differentiate itself based on its bulk offerings and focus on high-quality private labels.

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Packaging design becomes a key brand differentiator at Christmas during the peak trading period. However, despite its potential, summer packaging has yet to take off to the same extent. Manufacturers of fast moving consumer goods and over-the-counter healthcare products in particular could benefit from more diverse seasonal packaging designs, although this should not jeopardize efficacy claims.